Jennifer Nelson ’90 ’92G has been named associate vice president for principal gifts for Development and Alumni Relations, effective October 14.
As AVP for principal gifts, Nelson will lead the strategy around the development of Lehigh’s top prospects and oversee the Principal Gifts, Planned Giving, and Family Philanthropy programs. She will also continue to work directly with prospects and donors, developing relationships to advance the university and the goals of GO Beyond: The Campaign for Future Makers, the university’s $1.25 billion fundraising and engagement effort.
“Jen’s strong ties to Lehigh, her consistent success as a relationship builder and a fundraiser, and her talents in managing a team and collaborative projects make her an outstanding choice for the role,” said Carol Packard, vice president for development and alumni relations.
“I am thrilled and grateful to take on this opportunity to be a part of the evolution and growth of our team,” said Nelson. “In a time of great momentum, Lehigh is uniquely positioned in the higher education landscape to set ourselves apart. Building a program and leading a team that will spearhead this growth is near and dear to my heart and excites me beyond words.”
Nelson returned to Lehigh in 2011 as an associate director for individual giving for the mid-Atlantic region. In 2014, she was promoted to director for individual giving for New England. In 2020, her role was expanded to include the Greater New York region and team.
Nelson is known for developing long-term meaningful relationships with donors and key stakeholders across campus to consistently produce exceptional outcomes. She has championed several fundraising initiatives, including the renovation of Williams Hall in 2015, and was instrumental in one of the first significant gifts to the College of Health. Prior to Lehigh, Nelson worked in the clinical laboratory industry for more than 20 years in sales and management roles.
Nelson has a bachelor’s degree in international business and was captain of the varsity tennis team as an undergraduate. She went on to receive her Master of Business Administration in 1992 while serving as the graduate assistant coach for the men’s and women’s tennis teams. Her deep connection to Lehigh extends beyond her own experience: Her husband Gary ’89 ’23G, and three sons Michael ’22G, Jacob ’23, and Cooper '25, have either earned or are currently pursuing their degrees from the institution.
